Shutters vs. Screens?

BUILDING Shutter Systems is betting on both

We already like to compare this choice to a soccer derby. It is often a fraught choice between two products that au fond have much in common, but where the advantage of one is often the disadvantage of the other. However, soccer legend Johan Cruijff could not have put it better: "Every disadvantage has its advantage." That roller shutters and screens are complementary within their market segment, they have well understood at BUILDING Shutter Systems. That is why they use both products in order to be able to respond to various questions.

There is obviously no exact resemblance to a soccer derby, but choosing between cloth awnings or shutters can leave a consumer in two minds. Especially today, where the snow is more likely to reach our ankles in winter, while in summer we are frequently weighed down by the heat. Wouldn't it be better to choose a roller shutter for comfort, keeping the heat inside during the cold winter? Or screens, to protect the home from overheating in the summer months?
Burning topical is this, with young people playing hooky every week to gather by the thousands in a march for a better climate. It is an optimistic observation that BUILDING Shutter Systems is doing a small part for the better, with sustainable and energy-efficient solutions that mount a strong defense against the changing climate.

Premier in shutters, leading in screens
"Screens are chosen above all for their sleek design and wide range of execution options," says CEO Thibaut Suys. "Under the Lockscreen brand^® , we offer a complete range of outdoor awnings. The finish of the screen fabric is particularly remarkable. The bottom bar is aesthetically and tightly mounted to the fabric, with no visible weld seam. The new front screen, powered by solar energy, is a nice addition to our range, an innovation that does not require any cutting and breaking," adds Thibaut Suys. This Lockscreen^® FRONT Solaris is not only unique in design, but equally unique in terms of achievable dimensions. Controlled with the 10Nm Somfy motor, it achieves an area of up to 12m², with a maximum width of 4.5m."

BUILDING Shutter Systems has been playing in first class as a manufacturer of shutters for decades. "Over the years, the design of a roller shutter has nevertheless become increasingly important," CEO Thibaut Suys explains. "What proves decisive in terms of design is the color range. As the only manufacturer in Belgium, we powder-coat the roller shutter blade in all RAL colors, allowing the end consumer to choose a uniform color for blade, guides, cabinet and bottom lath that perfectly matches the style of his home. Paintwork is done in-house, with our fully automatic and 100% green paint shop. This also gives us, as a manufacturer, the luxury of being able to quickly and flexibly deliver a customized response to incoming orders."

The Lockscreen® FRONT Solar is 100% wireless screen and easy to install, THE solution for small renovations

We make the comparison:

• Solar screens put energy-wasting air conditioning systems out of action and ensure a pleasant indoor climate. And shutters also offer thermal insulation, not only blocking out the bright sun, but contributing greatly to heat retention.
• The market is constantly evolving toward new, sustainable solutions. Just think of solar-powered roller shutters and screens. So we can safely say that both products score in terms of energy performance.
• Equally in terms of living comfort, both are at an advantage. They are easy to use and operate, can provide the necessary privacy and, above all, provide a pleasant, comfortable indoor climate.
• However, when it comes to a sense of security, shutters are ahead of the game. The fixed closure of windows and doors deters unwanted visitors. That's where external fabric blinds can score few points.
• This in turn is nicely counterbalanced with the preservation of see-through screens, the view outward is preserved.
• In addition, screens are often chosen for their sleek design and wide range of execution options. Although it must be said that shutters go on the attack there. With a roller shutter blade, guides and case powder coated in the same color, for example, or an aesthetic integration of the bottom bar into the case.

So you see, with every disadvantage one product also has an advantage over the other and with that we have scored our point or at least made it clear: The choice between shutters or screens is entirely subjective or parental. Just like you are a fan of a soccer team because your father is, or like you have a preference for shutters because they used to be there at home... And if you really can't choose between 2 good things, go for both: blackout shutters for the upstairs bedrooms and solar screens that preserve the view outside on the downstairs.

So we whistle with a draw.